Can I boot from a DVD+RW?

Question

I created a bootable DVD+RW using Nero Burning ROM. Can I boot my PC using that DVD+RW? My PC has both a CD drive and a DVD burner drive. Problem is that in the BIOS the menu I think only allows to boot from the CD drive and not the DVD drive? How can I solve this? The reason I would like to use a DVD+RW instead of a CD is because I'm experimenting with different software programs and I don't want to waste CD's in the process.Thanks

osprey4 · Answer

If you want to boot to the DVD drive, it must be the master device, i.e., connected to the end connector on your IDE cable. This will usually mean it is the top drive in the system. If your CD is on top, simply swap them around.

alegator · Answer

I have both the CD and DVD drives set as 'CABLE SELECT', so what should I do?

klbf · Answer

also i think you'll want to set the dvd drive to boot before the hdd and floppy in the bios

Dimension 8300,
P4 2.80GHz 800MHz w/HT
1GB PC3200
Sparkle 6600GT oc
Creative SB Audigy 2 ZS (retail)
Seagate SATA 120,160, USB2 external 200GB
NEC DVD+RW ND-2100AD, Pioneer 16x DVD+/-RW DL DVR-109, HP usb CD-Writer+ 8200
15inch LCD
D-link DSL-G604T Router & D-link DWL-G122 wireless adapter
HP deskjet 3550
BearPaw 2400TA scanner
USB 2.0 tv tuner, Wacom graphire3 4x5inch, PCI Cooler | 80mm hdd fan
Benchmarks 3dmark03 8446...3dmark05 3498..3dmark06 1821...PCmark05 3448

osprey4 · Answer

You swap them, as I said. Put the DVD on top. Don't move the jumpers.

davejohn · Answer

On my Dim 4550 when I wanted to boot from the bottom drive I just disabled the device in the top slot in the bios.  I could then boot from the bottom drive.  And re-enable it when I was done.   Dave

Skybird · Answer

Restart you system and press F2 when the blue Dell loge shows.  Findthe Secondary Drive 1 and set it to OFF.  Save settings and exit.

alegator · Answer

Dave, how do you disable the drive in the BIOS?

Storage, Drives & Media

Can I boot from a DVD+RW?

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